Life Beside Christ

Send a text

What happens when God interrupts your comfortable college life with an unexpected divine encounter? For Bailey Johnson, a single phone call changed everything when a stranger prayed over her, revealing intimate details of her life that no one could have known.

Bailey's journey from softball player to spiritual seeker unfolds as she candidly shares the messy reality of finding faith in college—those exhilarating early days of devotion followed by difficult seasons where she felt torn between her newfound faith and campus social pressures. With refreshing honesty, she describes attending church hungover, questioning if God even wanted her there, and the shame that often followed these contradictions.

When an unexpected pregnancy during her senior year left Bailey facing motherhood alone, her faith was tested in profound ways. Now raising a two-year-old son, she reflects on how parenting has become one of her greatest spiritual teachers: "He speaks to me through my kid like no other." This transformative experience led her to create both a 21-day devotional called "Desiring Him" and launch the "Coffee Christ in Real Life" podcast, where she interviews fellow believers about their authentic faith journeys.

What makes Bailey's testimony so compelling is her willingness to acknowledge the non-linear nature of spiritual growth. "You're going to go through different seasons of being super on fire for God, and you're going to go through seasons where you feel really far away," she explains, offering encouragement to listeners navigating similar challenges. Her powerful reminder that "good fruit takes time" creates space for those wrestling with their own inconsistent spiritual journeys.

Whether you're a longtime believer, someone curious about faith, or somewhere in between, Bailey's story demonstrates how God pursues us even when we're running in the opposite direction. Her journey reminds us that transformation isn't about perfection but about keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus through every valley and mountaintop.

Ready to hear more authentic faith stories? Follow Bailey's podcast "Coffee Christ and RealLife" on Instagram, YouTube, and Spotify, and be sure to subscribe to Life Beside Christ for more conversations that bring faith into everyday life.

Find them here!

Instagram: @coffee.christ.and.reallife

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1mTS8OS0pwOuhQFAvVTJ9t?si=028f1196f0454d1f

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@CoffeeChristRealLife

We love hearing from our listeners whether it's criticism, advice, or just thoughts on the conversation we had. Find us or reach out to us here:
•Email: [email protected]
•Instagram: @lifebesidechristpodcast
•Intro/Outro Music: "Our Days" by David Hays

Send a text

When anger consumes us and we find ourselves screaming into the night over things we can't control, where do we turn? In this deeply personal conversation, we explore what it truly means to surrender our burdens to Jesus as promised in Matthew 11:28-30.

Levi shares his struggle with overwhelming frustration and the cycle of self-recrimination that follows—how we often withdraw rather than reach out, convinced our problems shouldn't burden others. This honest admission launches us into an exploration of why surrender remains one of the most challenging spiritual disciplines, especially for those of us conditioned to be fixers and problem-solvers.

The conversation weaves through powerful stories of breaking points, from David's experience during cancer recovery to Abraham Lincoln's reflection on being "driven to his knees" when his own wisdom proved insufficient. We discuss how God sometimes uses our discomfort to move us toward surrender when gentler methods haven't worked.

We also confront the profound impact of loneliness in our spiritual journey, acknowledging that while distraction might temporarily ease our pain, true comfort comes through connection—with others and ultimately with Christ. As we reflect on Genesis 2:18 ("it is not good for man to be alone") and Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, we're reminded that simply sitting beside someone in their struggle can be more powerful than any advice we might offer.

Perhaps most surprising is our realization that showing God our unfiltered emotions—even anger—may indicate a closer relationship with Him than we realize. Just as we show our true selves to those whose love we most trust, our willingness to be authentic with God reflects a deep, if complicated, intimacy.

Have you found yourself wrestling with God over circumstances beyond your control? Join our conversation and discover how Jesus offers not an escape from life's challenges, but a fundamentally different way to carry them—no longer alone, but yoked with Him.

We love hearing from our listeners whether it's criticism, advice, or just thoughts on the conversation we had. Find us or reach out to us here:
•Email: [email protected]
•Instagram: @lifebesidechristpodcast
•Intro/Outro Music: "Our Days" by David Hays

Send a text

The resurrection of Jesus Christ stands as the most pivotal moment in human history—a supernatural event that transformed death into life and despair into hope. In this deeply reflective episode, we explore the full spiritual significance of Easter weekend, from the crucifixion through the empty tomb to the appearances of the risen Christ.

What exactly did Jesus mean when He declared "It is finished" on the cross? We unpack this powerful statement through the lens of ancient debt cancellation, revealing how Christ's sacrifice paid humanity's spiritual debt in full. The conversation takes us through Good Friday's darkness, the disciples' Saturday confusion, and the Sunday morning discovery that changed everything.

The empty tomb presents compelling evidence for Jesus's resurrection—Roman guards, linen grave clothes, and multiple eyewitness accounts combine to validate Christianity's most extraordinary claim. We consider how the disciples, particularly Peter, responded to news of the resurrection, and what their reactions teach us about authentic faith today.

Beyond theological concepts, we wrestle with practical faith questions: Why is patience so difficult in our relationship with God? How should we handle angry prayers during times of doubt? And perhaps most profoundly—why do we truly want to go to heaven? Is it simply to avoid hell, or is there something deeper in the Christian longing for eternity?

Join us for this heart-level conversation about Easter's meaning, and discover why the resurrection remains as relevant to your daily struggles, doubts and hopes today as it was two thousand years ago. Because when Jesus conquered the grave, He changed not just history, but your story too.

We love hearing from our listeners whether it's criticism, advice, or just thoughts on the conversation we had. Find us or reach out to us here:
•Email: [email protected]
•Instagram: @lifebesidechristpodcast
•Intro/Outro Music: "Our Days" by David Hays

Send a text

Have you ever noticed yourself turning to God only when life hits extremes? After postponing this recording for nearly two months, I finally sat down to share a raw, unfiltered look at my personal faith struggles – specifically what I've come to call the "80% problem."

I realized that the vast majority of my prayer life happens only during the highest highs (when I'm grateful) and lowest lows (when I'm desperate). But what about the 80% of life that happens in between? This pattern revealed my ongoing battle with patience and trust – wanting God to provide immediate answers rather than embracing the waiting periods that are crucial to spiritual growth.

The Bible offers numerous examples of faithful waiting – Abraham and Sarah anticipating their promised child for decades, the Israelites wandering for 40 years before reaching the Promised Land. These stories make my impatience with waiting days or weeks seem trivial by comparison. Scripture directly addresses this human tendency in passages like Isaiah 40:31 ("those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength") and Romans 8:25 ("if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait patiently").

Perhaps most comforting is the understanding that God welcomes our authentic emotions. As Carter's father wisely shared, "God's got big shoulders" – we can approach Him with frustration, anger, and questions without turning away from faith. Like Job, questioning circumstances doesn't mean abandoning trust that God sees the complete picture when we can barely glimpse a fraction.

Whether you're struggling with patience, inconsistent prayer habits, or feeling distant from God during life's "middle ground" moments, know that you're not alone. Connect with us on Instagram @LifeBesideChristPodcast or email [email protected] to share your own experiences or prayer requests.

We love hearing from our listeners whether it's criticism, advice, or just thoughts on the conversation we had. Find us or reach out to us here:
•Email: [email protected]
•Instagram: @lifebesidechristpodcast
•Intro/Outro Music: "Our Days" by David Hays

Send a text

This episode embraces the journey of love, faith, and resiliency as Brady shares his family’s experience preparing for Mason’s heart transplant. Through discussions of hunting, personal growth, and biblical insights, the hosts reflect on the importance of stepping beyond fear while trusting in God’s plan.

• The steep road of preparation for Mason's transplant surgery
• Joy found in outdoor pursuits like hunting and traditional archery
• Discussion of Matthew 10 and the power of discipleship
• Embracing faith over fear in facing life’s challenges
• Importance of community support and prayer in difficult times
• Lighthearted banter providing a balance to serious discussions 

If you feel led, share the podcast with friends and reflect on your own journey of faith.

We love hearing from our listeners whether it's criticism, advice, or just thoughts on the conversation we had. Find us or reach out to us here:
•Email: [email protected]
•Instagram: @lifebesidechristpodcast
•Intro/Outro Music: "Our Days" by David Hays

Send a text

Have you ever tried to stick to a schedule only to have it hilariously fall apart, especially around the holidays? Carter and Levi are no strangers to this chaos, and with Thanksgiving knocking on our doors, we decided to embrace the madness with a festive-themed episode. We’re talking about our holiday plans—from Levi heading off to Indiana for some family bonding, to Carter's own daunting CrossFit challenge invitation from his sister. Join us as we share a few laughs about childhood games like Uno and our amusing ignorance of classics like Trivial Pursuit. As we chat, you'll get a glimpse of how we plan to dodge family duties just in time for the big meal.

Thanksgiving is more than just turkey and games; it's a time to reflect on gratitude, even when life's a little messy. Together, we navigate the tricky waters of maintaining a positive outlook amidst personal challenges, and how faith and community can play pivotal roles in encouraging thankfulness. We explore the idea of balancing personal desires with a greater purpose, all while celebrating the beauty of life’s ups and downs. And of course, we couldn’t wrap up without diving into the soulful world of gospel music, sharing some of our favorite tracks that bring a sense of spiritual connection. So, pour yourself a cup of holiday cheer, tune in, and let's give thanks for the little moments that make life beautiful.

We love hearing from our listeners whether it's criticism, advice, or just thoughts on the conversation we had. Find us or reach out to us here:
•Email: [email protected]
•Instagram: @lifebesidechristpodcast
•Intro/Outro Music: "Our Days" by David Hays

Send a text

Ever wondered how wrestling during Thanksgiving can shape your holiday season, or why deer hunting might involve more squirrel antics than you'd expect? Join us as we share our side-splitting struggles of launching this podcast amidst the chaos of early Christmas cheer, complete with tree decorating and movie marathons that keep grand babies—and us—entertained. We recount personal tales of navigating the holiday season, from the wrestling-induced Thanksgiving dramas to the never-ending debate over turkey versus ham. Dive into the early thrills of football fever and Thanksgiving leftovers somehow become the highlight of the year.

Imagine trying to outsmart a deer without any professional gear—trust us, it's as hilarious as it sounds! Our amateur deer hunting tales capture everything from the adrenaline-pumping moments of spotting a buck to the relentless and comical battle with mischievous squirrels. These stories of triumph and hilarity merge the essence of adventure and the joys of filling the freezer with fresh meat. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just love a good laugh, our exploits in the woods are sure to entertain. Plus, we touch on those unpredictable winter weather patterns that lead to wardrobe confusion and amusingly sparse Halloween participation.

Explore the profound and humorous journey of faith as we unravel stories of Roman centurions whose beliefs were either unshakeable or depended on grand events. Reflect on Jesus's encounters with outcasts, like the tax collector Matthew, and the lessons of mercy over sacrifice. Our discussion takes a light-hearted turn as we recall camping mishaps with raccoons and kielbasa, all while pondering the deeper meanings of grace and divine forgiveness. This episode invites you to consider the richness of personal traditions, the warmth of family connections, and the universal journey of faith—wrapped in a cozy blanket of humor and insight.

We love hearing from our listeners whether it's criticism, advice, or just thoughts on the conversation we had. Find us or reach out to us here:
•Email: [email protected]
•Instagram: @lifebesidechristpodcast
•Intro/Outro Music: "Our Days" by David Hays

Send a text

Have you ever wondered if life's challenges are a divine test or simply part of our human journey? Embark with us on an introspective journey as we examine the spiritual notion of "thorns" as challenges influenced by sin and the devil. Inspired by a thought-provoking TikTok, we explore the idea that God might leave these struggles in our lives to foster reliance on Him, sparking a lively debate about humility versus spiritual strength. Dive into personal reflections and listener stories shared via email and Instagram, as we all learn to embrace the power that comes from acknowledging our need for our Creator.

Revisit the haunting nostalgia of Halloween traditions, as we reminisce about the vibrant trick-or-treating adventures of yesteryears. Jacksonville's modern celebration seems limited and stretched, sparking our hope for a revival of community spirit. Remember the thrill of picking the best neighborhood for candy hauls? We long for those days and wish to see them return, creating a festive spirit that brings friends and families together once more. Share in our memories and aspirations for a future where Halloween's joy is preserved for generations to come.

Through the lens of Paul Harvey's 1965 radio clip, "If I Were the Devil," we take a reflective look at societal shifts and their striking relevance to today's world. As we navigate through Harvey's eerie predictions, we draw connections to contemporary cultural challenges and the urgent need for spiritual awareness, especially with an election approaching. Join us as we unpack the profound stories from Matthew 8, discussing the cost of following Jesus and the unwavering faith of the centurion. Finally, get ready for an engaging Q&A session where your questions shape our discussions. Whether you're curious about theological debates or just want to weigh in on the best condiments for hot dogs, your voice matters.

We love hearing from our listeners whether it's criticism, advice, or just thoughts on the conversation we had. Find us or reach out to us here:
•Email: [email protected]
•Instagram: @lifebesidechristpodcast
•Intro/Outro Music: "Our Days" by David Hays

Send a text

Ever tried a CrossFit workout only to find yourself in a hilarious, yet humbling predicament? You'll hear all about Levi's attempt and the laughter that ensued as he grappled with the intense world of CrossFit. With Brady taking a break to focus on family, Levi and Carter navigate the landscape of podcasting and life, discussing the art of saying no and keeping faith at the center of our commitments. This episode kicks off with some light-hearted banter, setting the stage for deeper conversations about aligning our daily choices with spiritual values.

Venture into a school prayer event, where even young students express values close to their hearts. We share a spirited tale of mechanical misadventures with a go-kart, adding humor to the frustrations of troubleshooting. From there, we dive into the intimidating yet exciting world of hunting season on public lands, where the search for the perfect spot parallels the quest for meaningful experiences. Through these stories, we capture the essence of community and shared learning that binds us together.

Reflecting on the wisdom of Matthew 7, we examine the challenges of judgment and self-improvement, emphasizing the role of churches as sanctuaries of healing. Our discussion on the Golden Rule leads us to explore the power of prayer and the significance of genuine faith. With a heartfelt look at the narrow road to salvation, we underscore the importance of sharing this journey with loved ones. Join us in this episode as we share personal reflections and invite you to connect with us, continuing to support and be part of our journey in this life beside Christ.

We love hearing from our listeners whether it's criticism, advice, or just thoughts on the conversation we had. Find us or reach out to us here:
•Email: [email protected]
•Instagram: @lifebesidechristpodcast
•Intro/Outro Music: "Our Days" by David Hays

Send a text

When was the last time you truly surrendered your daily struggles to faith? Join us in an eye-opening conversation with Adam Fox, a beloved friend of the Hays family, as he steps in for Brady, who is enjoying a well-deserved anniversary break. Adam shares his deeply personal faith journey, taking us from his roots in a Christian home to his evolved understanding of integrating faith seamlessly into every facet of life. The discussion turns poignant as we uncover how everyday moments, rather than grand gestures, often lead to the most impactful spiritual growth.

Ever struggled to ask for help, even when you knew you needed it? We tackle this familiar battle head-on, discussing how to balance self-reliance with seeking divine and communal support. Adam opens up about the common hesitation men feel in admitting vulnerability, and we talk about the indispensable value of a non-judgmental support system. Metaphors, personal stories, and candid reflections abound as we emphasize the importance of surrendering even the smallest issues to God and keeping our eyes on the bigger picture.

From bow hunting to church hymns, we explore how faith intertwines with our daily activities and passions. Adam discusses the joys of archery, the heartfelt beauty of nature, and how our hobbies can serve a greater purpose. Our conversation also touches on the dynamics of church life, the evolving landscape of worship styles, and the enduring connections within our community. Whether you're inspired by favorite Bible verses or the camaraderie of a church family, this episode promises a rich tapestry of reflections and insights that are sure to resonate and uplift.

We love hearing from our listeners whether it's criticism, advice, or just thoughts on the conversation we had. Find us or reach out to us here:
•Email: [email protected]
•Instagram: @lifebesidechristpodcast
•Intro/Outro Music: "Our Days" by David Hays